April is the perfect month to get your home ready for warmer weather ahead. The days are longer and entice us to freshen up our homes, both inside and out.
De-clutter
Create more room in your home by getting rid of unwanted items from your kitchen cabinets and closets throughout your home. This is a perfect opportunity to have a garage sale or contact a local charity organization. Getting rid of clutter helps you feel more organized and less frazzled when it comes time to find things.
Make Your Windows Shine
Spring clean your windows inside and out using a window cleaning solution and a squeegee or a soft cloth. Avoid using high-pressure spray washers as they may chip caulking or damage screens. If your windows have screening, remove the screens and clean those as well.
Check Your Foundation
Take a walk around the exterior of your home this month and examine your home’s foundation. Check for cracks in the masonry and loose tiles.
HVAC Check-up
Have your HVAC system tuned up before the arrival of warm weather. Hire a trained professional for the inspection and maintenance. Check online for companies that offer discounts to homeowners who sign an agreement for spring and fall maintenance. Maintaining your HVAC system all year can save you from unexpected emergency repairs at very inconvenient times.
Inspect Your Roof
Winter rain and snow can damage shingles and create possible roof leaks. Your first inspection can be done safely from the ground using a pair of binoculars. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, about 500,000 people are injured in ladder-related accidents each year. If you spot roof damage, hire a professional to replace missing, damaged, or cracked shingles.
Clean Your Gutters
It’s important to clean your gutters and downspouts out after each winter. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause eaves to rot, and rotted eaves can invite a new set of problems like wood rot and insect infestation. Properly maintained gutters and downspouts should divert water away from your home and its foundation.
Check for Termites
The beginning of spring is a great time to check for signs of termites. Keep an eye out for these winged insects. Termites swarm in the spring so if you spot swarms of winged insects flying out of a hole in the woodwork, it’s probably termites. Contact a licensed professional pest control company for an evaluation.
Your Sprinkler System
Make sure your sprinkler system is operational before the hot weather hits. Run your system through all zones and walk your property to inspect your system. Make sure there are no broken or damaged heads. Adjust sprinkler heads that hit your house, windows, porches, and sidewalks.
Spruce Up Your Garage
As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, your family will be spending more time in the garage gathering lawn equipment or various sporting and camping equipment. Take an afternoon to get your garage in order. Stow boxes onto shelves, hang bicycles or other sports equipment on hooks if possible. Get outdoor furniture out of storage and ready to use.
Check out 51 Brilliant Ways to Organize Your Garage at FamilyHandyman.com for great tips and tricks to get you going on this project.
Let’s face it. It’s been a long hibernation for your friends and family. Now it’s time to ring in spring. Grab our spring home maintenance to-do list, check off a few chores, and kick back and enjoy the beautiful weather ahead.